speech from me, but i do need to talk about the progress that's being made in congress today. for the last few days, leaders in both parties have been working toward an agreement that will prevent a middle class tax hike from hitting 98% of all americans starting tomorrow. preventing that tax hike has been my top priority, because the last thing folks like the folks up here on this stage can aafford right now is it to pay an extra $2,000 in taxes next year. middle class families karntcan' aafford it. businesses can't afford it. our economy can't afford it. today it appears that an agreement to prevent this new year's tax hike is within sight. it's not done. there are still issues left to resolve, but we're hopeful that congress can get it done. it's not done. so part of the reason that i wanted to speak to all of you here today is to make sure it that we emphasize to congress and that members of both parties understand that all across america this is a pressing concern on people's minds. now, the potential agreement that's being talked about would not only make sure the taxes